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FAQ

Q. What are the side effects of these meds?A. Of course, side effects will vary with each person. The most common side effects are sore ovaries and breasts, PMS symptoms, mood swings, hot flashes, headaches, and increased vaginal secretions. Please don’t use heating pads or Ibuprofen products such as Advil for pain. Tylenol ES is okay for discomfort. Please call the office if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms.

If you experience any nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, abdominal bloating, or decrease in urination, please call the office. These are symptoms of ovarian hyper stimulation and can be serious.

Q. Diet/Exercise/Alcohol/Smoking?A. A healthy, nutritious diet filled with lean protein, fruits, and vegetables is best when you are trying to conceive. A prenatal vitamin is also recommended. An over-the-counter brand is okay, but we can write a prescription if needed.

Once you start the medications, your ovaries may feel tender and some activities may be uncomfortable for you. Please listen to your body-if it hurts, don’t do the activity! We don’t recommend strenuous exercise or swimming once you proceed with intercourse or an insemination. Refrain from these activities until pregnancy is confirmed. Remember- chlorine isn’t good for sperm, so no swimming or hot tubs!

Due to the hormonal changes, a person may react differently to alcohol during the OVI cycle. Alcohol shouldn’t be consumed once an OVI cycle is complete and the couple is trying to conceive.

Smoking can affect fertility and the quality of eggs. Any reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked per day is a step in the right direction! Smoking cessation is ultimately the best choice and can help affect fertility in a positive manner.

Q. Can we have sex during the OVI cycle?A. Yes, but you are asked to abstain during certain times.

If intercourse is planned after taking the medications, we ask you to abstain 48hrs before your ultrasound/lab appointment. If we tell you to take the HCG injection that day, then you will be instructed to have intercourse that night and every other night x 1 week.

If an IUI is planned, you will be asked to abstain 48hrs before the procedure. Whether intercourse or an insemination is planned, please refrain from alcohol use for at least 48hrs beforehand.

Q. What if I get sick DURING the cycle? Can I take medicine? Can I go to the doctor/dentist?A. Our rule of thumb is: Once you start the medications we treat you like a PREGNANT person! Dr. Gentry says it is okay to take decongestants, anti-histamines, or cough suppressants for colds. Please check the label on the other medicines-if it says don’t take if you are pregnant then please don’t take. Ask your pharmacist for other medicines you can take.

If you have to go to the doctor/dentist during your cycle or after when you are trying to conceive, please inform them there is a possibility you could be pregnant. They need to know this in case they want to do a X-ray, CAT scan, MRI, etc.